Brigitte Clark '12

International Ambassador

Why do you want to serve as an International Ambassador at Santa Clara University?

India has taught me so much, and I feel like I have alot to share with others because my abroad experience is not the "typical" study abroad choice. Also I ran into quite a few problems dealing with my visa and financial aid, so if another student comes across similar issues, I will be able to help.

What were the deciding factors in choosing your study abroad program-location?

I have lived in many different countries because my dad is in the Army. India was one country that I have always wanted to visit because there is so much culture and traditions that intrested me. I wanted to be able to experience living a whole different lifestyle than my own.

Describe a defining moment in your abroad experiences and how that experience(s) has affected you personally, intellectually, vocational, spiritually, or academically.

I took a class called Microeconomics of India, and on top of the classes, we went to other states in India for field studies. We got to see the health centers, schools and self help groups of villages in rural villages, and it really made you appreciate what we take for granted in our daily life in America.

What advises, recommendations would you give to prospective study abroad students? In retrospect, how would you prepare differently to maximize the study abroad experience?

I would definitely say to keep your mind open, and go into the study abroad with no expectations, to just enjoy your experience each day, and treat it like a new adventure. Before I left, I talked to many people on what they thought of India and what to expect-some who have been there, and some who haven't- and nothing they said could have prepared me for what it actually was like.